Comparison of Resistive Breathing Versus Inspiratory Hold Technique in Patients With Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic Bronchitis (CB) is defined as a chronic cough and sputum production for at least 3 months a year for 2 consecutive years. It is covered under the umbrella term of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Chronic bronchitis is thought to be caused by overproduction and hypersecretion of mucus by goblet cells. Epithelial cells lining the airway response to toxic, infectious stimuli by releasing inflammatory mediators and e.g. pro-inflammatory cytokines. During an acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, the bronchial mucous membrane becomes hyperemic and edematous with diminished bronchial mucociliary function. This, in turn, leads to airflow impediment because of

luminal obstruction to small airways. The airways become clogged by debris and this further increases the irritation. The characteristic cough of bronchitis is caused by the copious secretion of mucus in chronic bronchitis. Pseudostratified epithelium, highlighting the pseudostratified epithelial cells, goblets cells (shown in blue), then underlying connective tissue.(3) To determine the importance and impact of resistive breathing techniques versus inspiratory hold techniques in patients with chronic bronchitis and specially to find out if there are any changes seen in results measured via incentive spirometer. There are few studies done over it whereas purpose of this research work is to compare these techniques to get better results.